Family of Chief Albert Luthuli suspects assassination

The family of late ANC struggle icon Chief Albert Luthuli believes he was assassinated by the apartheid government rather than dying in an accident, as officially recorded.

Doubt Over Official Cause of Death

Luthuli died in 1967, with apartheid-era records claiming he was struck and killed by a steam train. However, members of his family have long questioned this version of events.

Now, more than five decades later, the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg is hearing an inquest into Luthuli’s death, as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) seeks to have the original findings overturned.

Chief Albert Luthuli

Testimony from Grandson Raises Questions

On Thursday, Mthunzi Luthuli, grandson of the late anti-apartheid leader, testified before the court. He expressed the family’s rejection of the apartheid government’s explanation, calling it deeply flawed.

“I wish for these facts to be presented at the reopening of the inquest for purposes of establishing the truth as to what happened to the late Luthuli,” he said.

He added that the family seeks accountability and justice for what they believe was a gruesome murder, stating that those responsible should face consequences, and any reparations due must be considered.

Search for Truth and Justice

The reopening of the inquest is part of broader efforts to re-examine suspicious deaths of anti-apartheid activists. The Luthuli family hopes this renewed investigation will finally shed light on what truly happened and bring justice for the revered leader.

In other news – Mhlo Gumede responds to polygamy rumours involving wife Zandie Khumalo

Former record label executive Mhlo Gumede has addressed swirling rumours about his personal life, particularly reports suggesting his wife, singer Zandie Khumalo-Gumede, may soon accept a second wife into their marriage. “I can’t comment on the Gumede affairs in the media, I’ve never and will not stoop so low to make premature comments on my household,” said Gumede in response to growing speculation.

The rumours claim that Nonjabulo Mdluli, the niece of late Ukhozi FM presenter and Crown Gospel Awards founder Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, is set to become Gumede’s second wife. Speculation around the polygamous arrangement first surfaced last year. Read More